For people with Parkinson’s disease, one of the biggest risks is falling down due to problems with balance and strength in the legs and arms. Many of the falls that Parkinson’s disease patients suffer occur in the home, especially in the bathroom.
Bathroom falls often occur because the patient does not have sufficient leg strength to get on and off the toilet, or in and out of the tub. They also often lack the arm strength to support their bodies as they are getting up and down. Patients also have trouble in the bathroom because they cannot see as well as they used to, which can also lead to falls. Other common causes of falls in the bathroom for Parkinson’s patients include slipping on the wet floor or tub, tripping on a rug, or dizziness from standing up.
Today, there are many helpful Parkinson’s products that can make going to the toilet and using the bath tub much safer. Some of the best Parkinson’s supplies for the bathroom include:
- Millennia Raised Toilet Seats: This product has molded in arms for the best in support and security for the Parkinson’s patient. It will add a maximum of 3.5 inches to the height of the toilet seat. It also has a wider opening on the front that slopes at a downward angle to minimize chances of accidents.
- UpLift Commode Assist: This is a self powered lifting commode chair that will help you to gently seat and raise yourself. It can be used by itself or can be used over the toilet. The product will lock into the proper position when it is fully depressed. It can lift as much as 80% of the weight of the patient, and can be adjusted for patients who weigh as much as 300 pounds.
- Toilet Roll Holder with Integrated Handrail: This product is the perfect Parkinson’s product for both style and safety. It is very conveniently located next to the toilet so that you have extra support when you sit or stand. You should only have this product installed where the surface is structurally stable enough to provide you with support.
There are some other important tips to remember for the bathroom if you have Parkinson’s:
- Be sure that all throw rugs in the bathroom have rubber backing so there is no chance they will slip.
- Shelves should be installed in the shower area so you do not have to bend over to pick anything up.
- A hand held shower should be installed, and your maximum hot water temperature should be lowered to no more than 120 degrees F.
- A light switch right next to the bathroom door is important to have, as it will stop you from walking into a dark room.
- A nightlight also should be installed into the bathroom so that it is lit at night. This will really help to minimize falls.
- You also should consider purchasing a shower stool so that you can easily sit in the shower.
